Tundu Lissu, a prominent and outspoken Tanzanian politician, has been elected chairman of the main opposition party, Chadema, after he defeated long-time leader Freeman Mbowe in a closely contested race. Lissu secured 51.5% of the vote against Mbowe’s 48%. He campaigned for changes to the party’s leadership structure and the reintroduction of term limits. Lissu also criticized Mbowe for his allegedly reconciliatory approach towards the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, which he claimed eroded public trust in Chadema. Mbowe, who had led the party for over 20 years, campaigned for continuity, stating that he had more work to do to strengthen the party. Nevertheless, he quickly conceded the loss, congratulating Lissu and his team on their victory. Lissu’s triumph marks a shift toward a more combative opposition stance as Tanzania approaches presidential elections in October.
Source: BBC
